How About Those One Hundred Pushups? An Interview with Founder Steve Speirs

A few weeks ago, I wrote about . In particular, I was trying out some exercise programs using my iPhone. The programs I was attempting were One Hundred Pushups, Two Hundred Situps and Two Hundred Squats.

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Each one started with an exhaustion test to help create an appropriate routine based on my fitness level (I was in the advanced program for situps and squats, but ended up in the remedial group for pushups).

Then, I just followed the app instructions, doing several sets of each exercise three times a week. The goal, at the end of six weeks, was to be able to do 100 consecutive pushups without stopping, as well as 200 consecutive situps and squats.

I'm pleased to say that I successfully completed the entire program for situps and squats.

The One Hundred Pushups challenge?

Well, let's just say that's still a work in progress. Even though I was in the remedial group, apparently I need some extra help. Perhaps I need to hire a tutor? In any case, while I was taking a break from my pushups, I was fortunate enough to do a question and answer session with program founder Steve Speirs.

Q: So, Steve, I know the first program you did was One Hundred Pushups. Why pushups and how did you come up with the regimen? 
A: A couple of years ago I was looking for a basic strength program to supplement my marathon training. I found numerous articles online, molded them into a six-week plan and then created a website. Initially it was just for my own personal use, but over a short period of time it evolved into something that appealed to the masses. 

Q: What made you decide to expand to other exercises, such as situps and squats?
A: People seemed to enjoy the push-ups challenge, and wanted something similar for other muscle groups. I think the main attractions are simplicity, lack of equipment required and cost [the website programs are free].

Q: How many people do you estimate have tried at least one of the programs so far?
A: I am really not sure how many people have attempted the programs. I would guess somewhere in the region of 100,000-plus. I know that the One Hundred Pushups website alone has received almost 19 million visits since it launched in 2008.

Q: That's a lot of people doing pushups. Have you been surprised by that number?
A: Most definitely. It's quite staggering, really, how many people have gotten behind the plans.

Q: I made it through the complete plans for 200 situps and 200 squats but struggled in the last few weeks of the 100 pushups program. Do you have any idea what percent of people make it all the way through?
A: That's a tough question to answer. A lot of people seem to get to weeks four or five and then, for whatever reason, quit. Many of these people try again and again - it's like they must conquer the program and complete the challenge. Some people (me included) just follow the plans to ensure they do some sort of exercise on a regular basis. I typically cycle through weeks three to five as a good way to maintain a decent fitness and strength level. I think it's important to remember it's not all about the 100.

Q: I understand the One Hundred Pushups website has also evolved into a book. How did that come about?
A: Thoughts of writing a book had crossed my mind when I created the website, but to be honest I wasn't sure where to start and put the idea on the back burner. However, several months later I was approached by Ulysses Press, a small publishing company based in California, and the rest is history as they say. Book sales are steady, and according to Amazon.com, it is regularly one of the top 50 to 75 Exercise & Fitness books.  

Q: Although I liked the websites, I didn't really get hooked on the programs until I downloaded the apps. How are the apps selling?
A: App sales are pretty steady. All the apps are usually featured prominently in the Healthcare & Fitness category of the iTunes App Store.

Q: Do you have a premium package where I can pay for someone to come to my house and yell at me because I'm totally blowing off the pushups that I should be doing today?
A: Great idea! Maybe I can add something similar in the next release of the program?

Q: Steve Speirs, thanks for taking the time to chat with me.
A: Thank you. 

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